The Digital Age has changed the interface of small businesses and consumers. Owners and employers are now more accessible than ever. With social media, search engine optimization tools and Google adwords, small and medium-sized businesses are finding new ways to reach local and national customers.
With the surge in use of smart phones, search engines have become the link between businesses and consumers. Let’s take a look at some statistics surrounding search engines and their use:
According to a study conducted by Outbrain, search is the primary drive of traffic to sites.
Aside from email, search is the most common internet activity.
75% of people don’t bother to scroll past the first page of results when using a search engine.
When you combine these statistics with the multi-facted nature of online searches, it becomes increasingly clear how important proper internet marketing is for all businesses and organizations.
When implementing a internet marketing campaign, there are three major points to hit:
- Social Media: While many business owners see this as an after-thought in an internet marketing campaign, it is actually one of the most important factors (if not THE most important). It allows for a two-way relationship between business owners and potential customers.
- Website: When a customer is brought to your site by a search engine, the work doesn’t end there. An ideal website will have their important information (hours, location, phone number, services, etc.) easily available on their website. For most users, this is the only information they need. Aside from important basic information, the design of your website can be a deal-breaker for potential consumers. If your website doesn’t look professional and well-kept, search users will assume your business isn’t either.
- SEO (search engine optimization): SEO helps with placement on search engines. While maintaining social media profiles and a professional website is a great way to get started, utilizing SEO tools will take it to another level. You may have the information on your profiles and website but without keywords, meta tags, and proper SEO, people won’t be able to find it. SEO marketing (when properly executed) allows customers to see important information and social media profiles of organizations.